RDCF updates on the Additional Information Form

Author: Jen Badger Published: 24^th June, 2025

Amongst the numerous updates announced by HMRC, at the recent R&D Communication forum (RDCF) in May 2025, were some brief updates and clarifications about the Additional Information Form (AIF) that will be helpful to all accountants and advisers submitting claims. Here’s our quick summary.

Minor errors in Additional Information Forms

Since the AIF was introduced, HMRC have been rejecting claims based on minor errors in the Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), or the accounting period start and end dates. At the RDCF, it was announced that HMRC will now accept representations and allow companies to submit a correct AIF and reinstate the claim, even when the hard deadline has passed, providing that the company can prove that an AIF was submitted within the required window.This is a very welcome decision from HMRC and will be a huge relief for any affected companies. Accountants and advisers should note, however, that this only applies to these specific errors and not any other mistakes or omissions made in the AIF.HMRC have stated that they will be proactively reviewing rejected claims and contacting those affected.

AIF Records

Alongside this, HMRC emphasised that accountants, advisers and submitting companies should download and retain a record of the AIF form. A copy of the submitted data can now be downloaded within a short time window, post-submission of a form.

Happily, WhisperClaims users have this feature built in, with the AIF output created from their inputs and acting as a record of what information was entered into the AIF. While we’d still always recommend downloading the PDF from HMRC’s portal. It’s helpful to know you always have a backup!

With stricter HMRC oversight, accountants and advisers need a process that leaves nothing to chance. WhisperClaims keeps you on track with tailored guidance, risk assessments and expert Advice Line support, helping you submit robust claims, and keeping you confidently on the right side of HMRC.

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